Travel guide Crete
According to the legend, it was here that Zeus, the king of the gods, was born and where he abducted Europa. Also the Labyrinth of the minotaur and the thread of Ariadne is said to be here. Todaym this enchanting island offers a diverse and blend of ancient ruins and breathtakings landscapes. This quide will help you explore the wonders of Crete.
How to get to Crete?
Crete is well connected to the mainland of Greece and numerous international destinations through its two airports: Heraklion (HER) and Chania (CHQ). Each airport serves as a gateway to different regions of the island, allowing you to choose your arrival point based on your travel itinerary.
Heraklion International Airport: As the busiest airport in Crete, located near the island’s capital, it offers a wide range of international and domestic flights. If the Palace of Knossos is on your must-see list, flying into Heraklion is your best bet.
Chania International Airport: For those drawn to the Venetian charm of Chania or the breathtaking beaches of the west coast like Elafonissi, Chania’s airport is the ideal entry point.
Best time to go?
Crete is enchanting year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:
Peak season (July-August): For sun-seekers and those who don't mind the crowds. Early booking is crucial to secure your spot on flights and ferries.
Off seasons (April-June and September-October): Ideal for exploring the island’s natural beauty and archaeological sites in more colder weather.
How to get around?
The best way to explore Paxos is by renting a car, giving you the flexibility to discover the island at your own pace. The island's size makes it easy to navigate and you'll find that the drives add to the experience of your visit. Most international and local car rental agencies have offices at the airports and major towns. We rented our car with Hertz. Remember, while Crete's main roads are in good condition, rural areas can have narrow rocky roads, so confidence in your driving skills is a must and offcourse a decent car! If you're renting a car, ensure you have an international driving permit if you're coming from outside the EU.
Taxi’s are widely available in cities, airports and popular tourist spots. They are a good option for a shorter distance, making the cost reasonable.
Where to stay?
If you want to have a more relaxation vacation, I would recommend you a all-inclusive hotel like Grecotel. I did this a lot as a kid, but now we like more hidden boutique stays away from the masstourism. So, we stayed at Lameriana Village in the countryside. This hotel offers a range of rooms and some suites with private pools and there is one public. The breathaking views of the olive groves where magical and it also serves as the perfect base for exploring the wonders of Crete. We booked this gem with Eliza was here and would definitly recommend booking through this.
Best beaches in Crete
Balos beach
In the northwest of the island is this breathaking beach with wild beauty and crystal-clear waters. This is a must-visit destination on the island of Crete. Getting there is a journey itself! The road is rough and you need to hike a few kilometres to reach the beach. The trail offers panoramic views of the beach and it’s surroundings. Be aware: the path is challenging for some and I would recommend to have good footwear. To reach the beach, you'll begin with a descent on a narrow trail, which is relatively the easiest part of the journey. However, it's important to remember that after enjoying your time at the beach, you'll face the challenge of climbing back up. This ascent can be particularly demanding, with temperatures from 30 degrees Celsius!
Tips for your visit:
To avoid the crowds and enjoy Balos at its most serene, plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon, especially outside the peak tourist season (July and August). This famous beach is very crowded!
There are limited facilities at Balos, so it's wise to bring water, sunscreen and snacks. Also, remember to carry away all your rubbish to keep this natural paradise pristine.
The terrain around Balos can be rough, so good shoes are recommended for the hike. Water shoes are also a good idea for exploring the beach.
So, when planning your Crete itinerary, make sure to carve out a day for Balos Beach – it truly is the gem of Crete.
Preveli beach
Located in the southern coast of Crete lies Preveli beach. This is an enchanting and unique destination. The beach is accessible by car, followed by a hike down a narrow path. The descent offers stunning views and the beauty of the beach. It has lush palm forest thats lines its shores. The Kourtaliotiko river, which flows into the sea, creates a stunning lagoon on the beach. Where you can also go for a swimming. Remember to plan your visit in the morning or in the late afternoon, because it also gets crowded!
Its unique landscape of sea, river, and palm forest creates a serene and almost otherworldly atmosphere. So, when planning your Crete adventure, make sure to include a day for exploring the majestic Preveli beach.
Kleidisi beach
This beach was one of the most serene beaches we’ve seen! A best-kept secret that offers a tranquil escape from the island’s more crowded spots. This hidden gem is an untouched beauty of Crete. The journey is again an adventure, with scenic drives and a short hike. There is no path to get to this beach! You have to climb up and downstairs to get to and from the beach. The beach's secluded location means that it retains a natural charm, with minimal human impact on its environment. So there are no facilities on this beach!
Kleidisi Beach's clear, calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, offering a refreshing escape from the warmth of the Greek sun. Be aware that this beach is known for its relaxed approach to clothing, with many visitors choosing to sunbathe or swim without bathing suit. As such, it may not be the best choice for families with children. A little bit further down the road is Mikro Ammoudi with more facilities and better oppurtunies for kids.
Mikro Ammoudi
Next to the Kleidisi beach is Mikro Ammoudi. The crystal-clear waters and white sand beach are truly worth the visit! This spot offers a full range of facilities, including sunbeds and a tavern. This beach is a true gem and has nice opportunities for snorkeling.
Bali beach
In the northern coast of Crete, is a picturesque little haven with azure waters and a soft sandy beach. The clear, calm waters makes it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Bali beach is well-equipped with amenities: sunbeds and umbrellas for hire and various taverns and cafes. They even bring your drink to you, so you can enjoy the sun with a nice cold frape!
When arriving by car, it's crucial to secure payment for your parking spot. We overlooked the sign during our visit and ended up with a parking ticket! So, always keep an eye out for parking signage to avoid any surprises.
Best things to do in Crete
Explore the palace of Knossos
Located near Heraklionm this ancient site is home of the legend of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth. This is a must-visit when your in Crete! Make sure you head out early in the morning because of the weather or in the late afternoon.
Hike the Samaria gorge
Discliamer: do not attempt this 16 km hike if you’re not trained or you have bad physics. It’s on of Europe’s longest canyon treks and it’s a challenge due to the terrain and the hot weather! You can visit the Canyon and have a nice view over it and take a look closer downstairs. Wear good hiking shoes and carry plenty of water if you want to hike the trail!
Discover Chania
Spend a day in this beautiful venetian harbour. Shop in narrow streets and enjoy a meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants! Walk around the harbour and take a good look at the beautiful sea!
Experience cretan cuisine
Indulge in local dishes such as Dakos, Moussaka, and fresh seafood. Visiting a local taverna to sample Raki or Ouzo, along with a plate of mezze, is a must-do for any food lover. We recommend definitly a visit to Castelo restaurant and Achinos in Rehtymon.
Wander through Rethymnon old town
Explore its alleyways, discover hidden boutiques, and stop at a local cafe to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.This vibrant city is the third largest on the island and offers visitors a unique mix of Venetian and Ottoman influences, making it an intriguing place to explore. Whether you are interested in delving into its rich history, savoring its culinary delights, or simply enjoying its scenic surroundings. A must-visit for your trip!
Crete is a destination for your Mama mia’s summer! Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, enjoying the local cuisine, or simply soaking in the sun at a beautiful beach, Crete promises an unforgettable escape.